[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 149 (2003), Part 12]
[Senate]
[Page 16843]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

                                 prayer

  The guest Chaplain offered the following prayer:
  Before the Congress of the United States leaves to celebrate 
Independence Day, we pause to pray to You, Lord God, for the repose of 
the soul of Senator Strom Thurmond. Lord, reward this most senior 
statesman for his many years of pledged service to this country.
  As the Source of life and justice that will last forever, You have 
inspired the Founders of this Nation, individuals such as Senator 
Thurmond and citizens across this land, to continually seek what is 
right: to pursue lasting values for themselves and for all their 
brothers and sisters; and to pray always that they may grow in virtue 
and so strengthen this democracy.
  Our national celebration this year is an occasion for us to thank and 
praise You for this form of government, for its leaders and for the 
natural and human resources with which You continue to endow this great 
Nation.
  May we also take this moment to pray for the new Chaplain of the U.S. 
Senate, Chaplain Barry Black. Guide him by Your holy inspiration to 
ably respond to the needs of the Senators and this community. Gift him 
with the spirit of wisdom and prayer. And may he always find joy in 
serving You by serving in this august chamber. You, Lord God are 
America's boast now and forever! Amen.

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